Movements of Radioulnar Joint

• Radioulnar Movements - The following movements occur at the radioulnar joint:

  • pronation
  • supination

  
• Radioulnar Movements - Pronation:

  • Involves rotation of radius around ulna so the two bones cross in space
  • In anatomical position: palm of hand facing backwards

  
• Radioulnar Movements - Supination:

  • The reverse rotation of radius around ulna action brings bones back to parallel
  • In anatomical position: palm of hand facing forwards

  
• Radioulnar Pronation and Supination:

  • ROM: approx. 180 (full pronation to supination)
  • Movement: rotation of the lower end of radius around the head of ulna

  
• Radioulnar Pronation and Supination - Superior radioulnar joint:

  • Limited by: tension in quadrate ligament

  
• Radioulnar Pronation and Supination - Superior radioulnar joint:

  • Movement: rotation of head of radius within fibro-osseous ring

  
• Radioulnar Pronation and Supination - Inferior radioulnar joint:

  • Movement: rotation of the lower end of radius around the head of ulna

  
• Radioulnar Pronation and Supination - Inferior radioulnar joint:

  • Very stable joint (due to articular disk, interosseus membrane and pronator quadratus)